Effects of Fertilizers on the Environment

     Many man-made fertilizers have an extremely negative impact on the environment. They are harmful to local animals and kill good bugs and insects as well as the pests. Fertilizers leave behind residues that penetrate the skin and can be toxic if touched. Organic fertilizers are not harmful to the environment and will keep your lawn stronger, hardier, and prepared for the next season. Organic fertilizers also minimize infestations and disease.

     In addition to fertilizing, there are many other things to do to properly take care of your lawn. Before you begin working on your yard, make sure to test the soil. This will help you decide which techniques you need to use. The soil test should be done during the growing season. With a range of soil tests, it’s easy to get a report and organic recommendations for your lawn. This is a good starting point. Soil tests indicate the acidity, the levels of main nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), micronutrients, and organic matter. The test points out deficiencies, which need to be corrected. For example, if there is low organic activity in the soil, top dress it with ¼ inches of compost at the beginning and the end of the lawn season.

     Healthy, organic, soil requires biological activity with the help of earth worms and microorganisms. This helps organic matter to flourish. In the early spring, clean up and aerate the ground. Aeration helps to alleviate compaction caused by winter snows and gravity. The soil receives oxygen, which promotes activity in the soil organisms. This helps fertilizers penetrate the root systems much more deeply. In the early spring also apply organic herbicide (20 lbs/1,000 sq ft.) Apply when bulbs away from the house start to bloom.

     In late spring apply organic fertilizer. Blended organic fertilizer is best used, and should be routinely applied, with routine mowing early spring through late fall. Mow at a cutting height of at least 3 inches. Mulch-cut and leave clippings on the lawn. Research has shown that cutting grass high has many benefits for organic lawns. Cutting high crowds many weeds out. Root systems are developed to provide drought-resistance and hardiness. Insect and disease problems are minimized.

     In the early summer (and when needed) apply bio-stimulants. This helps plants to resist disease. Use a booster fertilizer for heavy feeding grasses (such as Kentucky and Blue Grass). These grasses are also grasses that have a longer growing season.

     Early to mid fall apply winterizing organic fertilizer. A winterizing fertilizer concentrates below the soil, strengthening root systems for the next season. In the mid to late fall apply lime. This also helps to develop plant hardiness. In the late fall do your final clean up. Reduce your final cutting height and remove remaining leaves from the lawn. These can be added to a compost pile.

     Non organic fertilizers can damage your lawn in addition to being harmful to the environment. By paying attention to all aspects of your lawn and the environment you can be successful for years to come.